Implant-grade steel is a popular material used in body jewellery due to its affordability, approval by the Association of Piercing Professionals, and durability. However, it’s essential to be aware that implant-grade steel contains nickel, which can be problematic for individuals with nickel allergies.
Many people experience skin irritation from various metals in body jewellery, but nickel is mainly known to cause the most skin irritation. Consequently, many individuals cannot wear steel body jewellery due to their nickel allergies. However, before altogether abandoning the idea of getting a body piercing, it’s essential to know that there are alternative materials to steel that are nickel-free and won’t cause irritation. Here’s all the important information you need to know about these alternatives.
Factors leading to irritation
Steel is not a pure metal; all jewellery metals are alloys, which means they combine different metals. These alloys are used for various purposes, such as strengthening the material (as seen in gold) or increasing its malleability. Different metals are added for multiple reasons, leading to varying purity levels in the final material. Some metals used in jewellery are purer than others due to different alloying elements.
Nickel is frequently added to jewellery alloys for its strength and silver-like appearance. However, a significant drawback of nickel is its potential to cause contact dermatitis, a skin reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with nickel. This condition can manifest even in individuals who have never experienced any issues with nickel, as it may develop after prolonged exposure to the metal.
If you cannot wear steel jewellery, it is most likely due to the nickel in it. Since all steel contains nickel, wearing any steel jewellery would likely trigger a reaction in you. The positive news is that there are nickel-free alternative materials to steel, allowing you to wear jewellery without experiencing any allergic reactions.
Nickel Allergy Symptoms
Before embarking on your search for nickel alternatives, it’s crucial to identify whether the symptoms you are experiencing indicate a nickel allergy. Here are some indicators to look for:
- Skin Redness: Observe any red or inflamed areas on the skin after wearing jewellery or coming into contact with metal objects.
- Itching: Pay attention to persistent itching or irritation on the skin, particularly in areas exposed to metal.
- Rash: Look for the development of an inflammation, which may be in the form of small bumps or patches on the skin.
- Blisters: Notice the appearance of blisters or welts on the skin after wearing jewellery or handling metal items.
- Discomfort: Be aware of any general pain or tenderness in areas where metal touches the skin.
Nickel is present in various metal items like zippers and belts buckles. If you notice similar symptoms in other body areas where you frequently come into contact with metal, it’s likely a nickel allergy. On the other hand, if these symptoms don’t occur in such areas, it might indicate a different form of chemical irritation.
Alternatives to steel
Fortunately, numerous steel alternatives are available to prevent any irritation from piercings. Instead of choosing metals containing nickel, opt for nickel-free silver metals. Many people prefer implant-grade titanium as it is affordable and considered one of the purer materials for body jewellery.
However, 14k white gold is a fantastic choice if you desire a premium option. It provides a luxurious silver shine that surpasses titanium’s appearance. Although some 14k white gold may still contain nickel to achieve its silver hue, white gold is rhodium-plated and entirely nickel-free. Rhodium, one of the most expensive metals globally, offers a unique silver tone for your jewellery needs.
Another option worth considering is 950 platinum, a metal renowned for its exceptional purity. Platinum ranks among the purest metals available and boasts impressive strength. Its durability has made it a preferred choice for wedding rings over gold. When we say 950 platinum, it means the jewellery is made up of 95% platinum and 5% of other alloys like rhodium, copper, palladium, iridium, or titanium, which enhances its malleability. Due to its high purity level, wearing platinum jewellery is unlikely to cause any irritation, ensuring you can enjoy your piece for many decades.
Experiencing nickel irritation can be disappointing, but it doesn’t have to spell the end of your piercings. The key is to seek jewellery crafted from nickel-free materials. Ideally, opt for high-quality metals that are gentle on your skin and durable enough to stand the test of time, ensuring you can enjoy your piercings for a lifetime without any irritation.
One reply to “I’m Allergic to Surgical Steel! What should I use for My Body Piercing?”
I’m glad to hear my response was helpful! After three months of struggling to heal your piercing, your dermatologist suspected you were allergic to the surgical steel in your earring. As a solution, they advised you to switch to 18K gold. They may have been correct, as you noticed that the redness and itching have stopped since making the change.